This informal group includes the species Begonia rex and the many hybrids derived from it. They are members of the Begonia family (Begoniaceae). Its native range is from Bhutan to Northern Myanmar and is found primarily in subtropical regions. The species was introduced into cultivation in the 1850s. It became very popular as a houseplant, and hybrids began to appear with many different leaf patterns. It is a rhizomatous, herbaceous perennial with vibrant, colorful, variegated foliage. The rex begonia is perfect for hanging baskets, windowsills, outdoor containers or houseplants. In warmer climates, it does well in the landscape. The plants vary in color, shape, texture and size. They are commonly called the painted leaf begonia or fancy-leaf begonia. They have a dense habit and grow 12 to 18 inches tall. The leaves are found in colors of green, red, pink, silver, gray, lavender and maroon with a somewhat metallic appearance. The foliage is showy and eye-catching, frequently overshadowing the small pinkish-white flowers. Rex begonias prefer bright but indirect sunlight, moist, well-drained soil, and high humidity. To prevent disease, avoid misting and overwatering. The plants will do well in bathrooms or kitchens that have increased humidity. The plants can also be placed on trays of wet pebbles to encourage higher humidity. Rex begonias are mainly grown indoors and may be a challenge. Their vibrant and colorful leaves will be a wonderful addition to your home or patio. Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: Monitor for mealybugs . Overwatering can cause root rot. Fungal diseases such as botrytis and powdery mildew can occur. Provide good circulation and remove dead leaves to prevent disease. Bacterial leaf spots can also occur. More information on Begonia .
Curated pairwise relationships between this plant and others in the library — who feeds
whom, who competes, who confuses the pests. Green reads as a good pairing, red as one to avoid.
No curated interactions recorded for this species yet.
Also noted by NC State
Related species the NC State Plant Toolbox flags for this plant — look-alikes to tell
apart, and plants that play a similar role in a planting. Ones we carry in the library are linked.
The showy leaves vary in color, texture, and size. Some can measure up to 12 inches long and 8 inches wide. They have prominent vein and are sparsely hairy. The leaf colors can range from green, silver, burgundy, pink, or purple. Depending on the hybrid, the edges and center of the leaf usually have contrasting colors. The under surface is usually red.
Flower color
Insignificant; Pink; White
Flower form
Panicle
Flower detail
The flowers are small, pinkish-white, and appear in clusters on an erect 12 inch long stalk. The spectacular leaves over shadow the flowers.
Wildlife & Ecology
Native status
Unknown
Origin
Bhutan to Northern Myanmar
Distribution
Native: Assam, East Himalaya, Myanmar; Introduced Bangladesh, Cuba, Dominican Republic, and Haiti
Play value
Colorful
Landscape Use
Landscape location
Container; Hanging Baskets; Houseplants
Garden tags
#houseplant #problem for dogs #herbaceous perennial #dappled shade #problem for cats #interesting leaves #container plant #wet soils intolerant #variegated #contact dermatitis #acidic soils tolerant #problem for children #problem for horses #hanging baskets #hortcontest #partial shade tolerant
Problems & Resistance
Problems
Contact Dermatitis; Problem for Cats; Problem for Children; Problem for Dogs; Problem for Horses
Resistant to
Black Walnut; Humidity
Propagation
Division; Leaf Cutting; Stem Cutting
Poison severity
Low
Poison parts
Roots; Sap/Juice
Poison symptoms
If ingested, Kidney failure (in grazing animals), vomiting, and salivation in dogs/cats. The most toxic part is the underground roots. Sap can cause skin irritation.